contemporary jazz
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Mark Johnson Contemporary Jazz Review
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I wrote this review in 1994, when Mark Johnson’s debut self-titled solo recording was released: With so many saxophonists trying to copy the funky Sanborn sound, it’s difficult for new artists not to get lost in the shuffle. A new release has to really have a good, strong sound and great songs to stand out…
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Chick Corea Elektric Band Box Set
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I didn’t know that Chick Corea Elektric Band members John Patitucci and Frank Gambale shared the same birthday (December 22)! Happy birthday, gentlemen! This year has been an especially good year to celebrate this all-star band. The original five Elektric Band studio albums, from 1986-1991, have been released in a deluxe 10-LP box set and…
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Nicholas Payton – Drip
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Nicholas Payton, a multi-faceted jazz artist and social activist, recently released his 26th recording, Drip. The album features new versions of six previously recorded compositions, including collaborations with Robert Glasper, Michael Franks, and Patrice Rushen. Payton emphasizes the importance of life experiences in his work, with a goal to uplift his audience and challenge status…
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1988, charts, chick corea, contemporary jazz, david benoit, dianne reeves, kirk whalum, michael brecker, rippingtonsTop Contemporary Jazz Albums – June 25, 1988
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Bobby McFerrin had the top recording on the Billboard Contemporary Jazz Albums chart 35 years ago. Simple Pleasures was spending its second week as the #1 album the week of June 25, 1988. Simple Pleasures was a bestseller thanks to the massive success of the single “Don’t Worry Be Happy” According to McFerrin on the…
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Euphoria by Keiko Matsui Out March 31
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Keiko Matsui, a contemporary jazz icon for decades, is releasing her 30th recording, Euphoria, on March 31, 2023, which she describes as an album about the hope we carry inside us. “I have this dream where we can each cherish our own happiness and learn to accept and care for one another. When I tour…